Seoul: Gyeongbok Palace, Bukchon Village, and Gwangjang Tour

Discovering the rich cultural tapestry of Seoul has never been easier. This tour invites travelers to enjoy the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the charm of Bukchon Hanok Village, and the vibrant flavors of Gwangjang Market. With comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides, this comprehensive experience promises to unveil the city’s captivating history and traditions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour offers a chance to unlock the secrets of Seoul’s enchanting allure.

Key Points

• This guided tour covers the highlights of Seoul, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Gwangjang Market.
• The tour offers a 1-hour guided visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, showcasing its grand architecture and the royal guard changing ceremony.
• Visitors can explore the historic neighborhood of Bukchon Hanok Village and learn about traditional Korean houses during a 30-minute guided tour.
• The tour includes a scenic 30-minute drive up Bugaksan Mountain, providing panoramic views of Seoul’s cityscape and a stop at the Bugak Palgakjeong pavilion.
• The final stop at Gwangjang Market allows visitors to enjoy the local street food culture and sample a variety of Korean specialties.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Seoul: Gyeongbok Palace, Bukchon Village, and Gwangjang Tour," offers a comprehensive exploration of Seoul’s top attractions.

A comprehensive exploration of Seoul’s top attractions, including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Village, and Gwangjang Market.

Priced from £24.74 per person, the 4-9 hour tour is available in English and Japanese. Pickup is optional from centrally-located hotels, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include guided tours of Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, a scenic drive to Bugak Skyway, and a visit to Gwangjang Market.

The tour provides an immersive cultural experience, with ample opportunities to explore historic sites, sample local cuisine, and appreciate Seoul’s unique heritage.

Highlights of the Gyeongbokgung Palace

Guided tours of Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest of Seoul’s five royal palaces, offer visitors a glimpse into Korea’s rich history and cultural heritage.

During the 1-hour tour, guests can watch the captivating Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, a solemn and ceremonial event showcasing the palace’s military traditions.

The palace’s grand architecture, decorated with intricate patterns and vibrant colors, provides a stunning backdrop.

Knowledgeable guides share insights into the palace’s former role as the main royal residence and the significant events that have taken place within its walls over centuries of Korean dynastic rule.

Exploring the Bukchon Hanok Village

After exploring the grand Gyeongbokgung Palace, visitors can experience the charming traditional atmosphere of Bukchon Hanok Village. This historic neighborhood boasts hundreds of well-preserved traditional Korean houses, or hanoks, that now serve as cultural centers, guesthouses, and restaurants. A guided tour leads guests through the narrow, winding alleys, offering insights into the architecture and daily life of the residents.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Duration | 30 minutes |

| Highlights | – Traditional hanok houses
– Cultural centers
– Guesthouses and restaurants |

| Accessibility | Not suitable for wheelchair users |

| Closure | Closed to travelers on Sundays from November 1, 2024 |

Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty and tranquility of this living museum, gaining a deeper appreciation for Korea’s rich cultural heritage.

Scenic Drive to Bugak Skyway

Next, visitors embark on a scenic drive to the Bugak Skyway. The 30-minute journey takes them up the winding road of Bugaksan Mountain, offering panoramic views of Seoul’s sprawling cityscape.

At the top, they reach the Bugak Palgakjeong pavilion, where they spend 10 minutes admiring the panoramic vistas. The pavilion’s unique octagonal design provides an elevated vantage point to gaze out over the metropolis below.

This picturesque stopover offers a chance to capture breathtaking photographs and soak in the city’s natural beauty before continuing the tour.

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Discovering the Korean Ginseng Museum

From the scenic Bugak Skyway, the tour then takes visitors to the Korean Ginseng Museum. Here, guests can explore the historical significance and health benefits of the revered Korean ginseng. The museum offers a 30-minute shopping experience, allowing visitors to browse an array of ginseng-infused products and learn about their properties.

| Ginseng Products | Benefits |

|—————–|———-|

| Ginseng Tea | Boosts Immunity |

| Ginseng Powder | Reduces Stress |

| Ginseng Capsules | Improves Sleep |

| Ginseng Skincare | Anti-Aging |

| Ginseng Candy | Energy Boost |

Taking in the rich heritage of this renowned root, the tour provides a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance and medicinal qualities of Korean ginseng.

Sampling the Delights of Gwangjang Market

Concluding the tour, visitors are led to the vibrant Gwangjang Market, a renowned local hub renowned for its diverse culinary offerings.

Here, they can indulge in a true taste of Korean street food:

1. Bindaetteok: These savory mung bean pancakes are a Gwangjang Market specialty, crispy on the outside and soft within.

2. Mayak Gimbap: These compact seaweed rice rolls, often called "narcotic gimbap," offer a flavorful twist on the classic dish.

3. Tteokbokki: Spicy, chewy rice cakes in a gochujang-based sauce, a quintessential Korean street food.

4. Kimbap: The classic Korean seaweed rice rolls, with a variety of fillings to choose from.

Transportation and Accessibility

For transportation, the tour provides air-conditioned minivans or coaches to ensure a comfortable journey.

Pickup and drop-off services are available only for private tour customers, making it convenient for those staying in centrally-located hotels.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility challenges may need to consider other options.

This tour may not be accessible for wheelchair users, requiring them to explore alternative options.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through the historic sites.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Seoul tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 480 reviews.

The tour guides have been singled out for their exceptional knowledge and friendliness, earning a 4.9 rating. The transportation also received high marks, with a 4.9 rating for its comfort and reliability.

Reviewers have consistently praised the tour’s value for money, which received a 4.8 rating.

Here are some highlights from the reviews:

• "Praised guide Stella for her knowledge and friendliness." – Claire, UK

• "Appreciated the experienced guide Sunny and cultural insights." – Oliver, UK

• "Commended cheerful and knowledgeable guide." – Agnes, Poland

Over 93 customer photos shared, showcasing the tour’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?

If you have special dietary requirements, notify the tour operator in advance. They’ll try to accommodate your needs, but can’t guarantee availability of specific food options at the Gwangjang Market stop.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Customers can discuss this with the tour operator in advance, and any additional costs will be provided. This allows flexibility to accommodate individual preferences or needs.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, with a guided tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace lasting 1 hour and a 30-minute walk through Bukchon Hanok Village. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully experience the sights and attractions during the tour.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary?

The tour allows for some customization, but the core itinerary is set. Customers can discuss any special requests with the tour operator, who’ll try to accommodate them within the tour’s timeframe and logistics.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

You don’t need to bring your own water and snacks. The tour provides transportation, and there’ll be opportunities to purchase food and drinks during the market visit. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour of Seoul’s cultural highlights is a must-do for any visitor. From the grandeur of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the charming alleys of Bukchon Village and the vibrant Gwangjang Market, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the city’s rich heritage. With comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and consistently positive reviews, it’s an excellent way to experience the best of Seoul’s iconic landmarks and local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: